FAQ: Beanies, Caps, and Care
What is a beanie?
A beanie is a type of close-fitting hat without a brim. Beanies can be made from many different materials. Wool and merino wool are common choices for winter styles, while cotton and synthetic fibers are also used in lighter versions. The material affects warmth, breathability, how it feels against the skin, and how the hat should be cared for. STRØM’s beanies are made of cashmere, which provides extra softness and doesn’t itch when worn. Another benefit of cashmere is that it regulates temperature. This means it keeps you warm when you’re cold and, conversely, cools you down when you’re warm.
The design can also vary significantly. Some beanies fit snugly over the ears, while others have a shorter fit or extra fabric that creates a looser silhouette. A beanie is therefore not necessarily synonymous with any one specific fit—the term primarily refers to the type of headwear.
Where does the cap come from?
The cap does not have a single origin, but the modern baseball cap is closely linked to the development of baseball in the United States. Early baseball players wore various types of headgear, and baseball uniforms gradually evolved throughout the 1800s.
Over time, the cap took on a practical function on the baseball field, where the brim could shield the eyes from the sun. At the same time, team logos and colors became part of the design, making the cap a visible part of the sports uniform. This is a key part of the explanation for why the baseball cap was later able to transition from sports to fashion. When a piece of clothing serves both as practical attire and as a visual symbol, it becomes easier to wear outside its original context.
Today, the baseball cap is therefore found as a sports accessory, streetwear, and as part of high-end fashion. Our selection of caps from Acne Studios is a modern interpretation of the classic cap.
How do you wash a beanie and a cap?
The most important thing is to consider the material and follow the care instructions for the specific product. A baseball cap may have a shape-retaining brim and a textured crown that can’t necessarily withstand the same treatment as regular clothing. Therefore, it’s not a good idea to automatically put all baseball caps in the washing machine.
For minor stains, spot cleaning with a damp cloth and a mild detergent is often sufficient. If the entire cap needs to be cleaned, you should first check the manufacturer’s instructions. Caps with shape-retaining constructions, such as our Acne Studios caps, should be handled with care so they don’t lose their original shape.
A knitted hat is different. If it’s made of wool, you should follow the care label instructions and use a detergent designed for wool. It’s recommended, among other things, to wash it gently, and it’s important to note that wool often doesn’t need to be washed as frequently as many other fabrics. Our selection of cashmere hats should be hand-washed or washed on the wool cycle at 30 degrees. It is not recommended to use fabric softener; instead, use a wool detergent.